An integrated framework for energy network modeling in hybrid-electric aircraft conceptual design

Wahler, Nicolas F., Radomsky, Lukas, Hanisch, Lucas Vincent, Göing, Jan, Meyer, Patrick, Mallwitz, Regine, Friedrichs, Jens, Henke, Markus and Elham, Ali (2022) An integrated framework for energy network modeling in hybrid-electric aircraft conceptual design. In, AIAA AVIATION 2022 Forum. 2022 AIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition (AIAA AVIATION Forum) (27/06/22 - 01/07/22) American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. (doi:10.2514/6.2022-3741).

Abstract

In aircraft conceptual design, propulsion models are often highly simplified. For hybrid-electric aircraft, these simplifications can have a significant effect on the feasible design space. A credible hybrid-electric aircraft conceptual design thus should include a higher-fidelity design of their energy network, that is able to give a more detailed insight into the effects of energy network components. A new energy network model is presented that does not rely on statistical values for the performance and mass values of its components, but that is able to model the main components of hybrid-electrical networks individually, leading to a higher resolution in electric network sizing. Four main network architectures are implemented: Full-electric, parallel-electric, serial-electric and conventional ultra-high bypass turbofan. These architectures are designed to cover the full range of modern and future aircraft with varying degree of electrification. The network allows a variety of design options for all individual parts, allowing a designer to assess a wide range of potential network assemblies. All parts of the network are verified and validated against reference values from currently existing components or scientific literature or validated software when necessary. To showcase the functionality of the model and the effect different design choices can have on an aircraft-level energy network, a baseline parallel-electric aircraft design is created. The effects of a variety of different design parameters on the mass and power losses of the network is evaluated. The system voltage, electric machine type and the conductor material prove to have significant influence on the total system. A comparison with a current battery system against the assumed futuristic system highlights the necessity of large advances in battery technology before such a system becomes a realistic option for sustainable aviation.

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